Scuba Equipment

[highlife]

Can anyone give me advice on where to buy scuba equipment, what brands to buy and what price range to look for?

I need a BC vest, regulator, octopus and a dive computer. I am a new diver, taking open water certification right now. I live in south florida though so I anticipate diving alot so I want to get good equipment, like just a step or two below top of the line.

My instructor has recommended some things, but I don't really trust his advice because he just sold me a wetsuit that I could have got online for over $100 cheaper.

Aqualung is a standard brand for good equipment right? What about Sherwood? I found a nicely priced Sherwood complete package here - Link

Thanks in advance.